What does Sigma Male mean?
A lone wolf archetype in manosphere ideology
Detailed Explanation
In the online 'manosphere,' a 'sigma male' is an archetype of a man who is successful and popular like an 'alpha male,' but who operates outside of the normal social hierarchy by choice. He is the quintessential 'lone wolf'—introverted, self-reliant, and indifferent to the opinions of others. The term is often used both sincerely within its subculture and ironically in memes to parody the concept.
Usage Examples
“He doesn't go to parties and is very independent; he thinks of himself as a sigma male.”
“There are a lot of memes making fun of the 'sigma male' archetype.”
“The character of Patrick Bateman from 'American Psycho' is often ironically labeled as a sigma male.”
Origin & History
The term was popularized by writer Vox Day and gained traction in 'manosphere' communities in the 2010s as an alternative to the 'alpha/beta' dichotomy. It went viral in the early 2020s through TikTok edits and memes, which often satirized the concept.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 'sigma male' concept based on science?
No. Like the 'alpha male,' the 'sigma male' is not a concept recognized by mainstream psychology or sociology. It is a social archetype created and used within a specific online subculture.